SSCC to Chief Sealth seniors: your first year of college is free | Community Spirit

For the over 200 members of Chief Sealth International High School’s Class of 2011, today brought a massive gift, and a huge opportunity.

South Seattle Community College President Gary Oertli, a Chief Sealth alumnus, announced to the seniors at an assembly on Friday that every member of their class will be able to attend SSCC next year for free as part of the college’s 13th Year Promise Scholarship, regardless of grades, test scores or economic factors. The scholarships are being paid for by money raised by the South Seattle Community College Foundation.

“As students are being asked to bear a larger share of the costs associated with college, initiatives like our 13th Year Promise Scholarship become even more important,” Oertli said in a statement.  “South is committed to keeping the pathway open to higher education for those who might not otherwise be able to continue after high school.  And as a Chief Sealth graduate, I’m especially pleased that we are extending the program to my alma mater.”

The Chief Sealth Class of 2011 not only will get free tuition to SSCC, but they will also be able to attend a one-week College Bridge program to help them become familiar with SSCC’s programs and services. SSCC will also have a coordinator dedicated just to them, available to help out with filling out forms, helping them find programs or services of interest or just to be a good listener.

Chief Sealth Principal John Boyd was overjoyed by the program announced by SSCC.

“This is a phenomenal opportunity for our graduating seniors,” he said.  “With the cost of tuition increasing at levels above inflation, the opportunity to have their first year of college paid for is a tremendous gift for our students and their families.”

SSCC first started the program with 20 students from the Cleveland High School Class of 2008. This is a massive expansion of the program, but the SSCCF is up to the challenge, and more than happy to do it.

“Lack of money should never be a reason a student can’t get started in pursuing a college education,” SSCCF President Keith Schrieber said. “We’re thrilled that our support makes a difference and we’re grateful to members of the community who have made generous philanthropic gifts to make this possible.”